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Vamps and Victims

May 20th, 2010

The recent case of HM Land Registry v Grant is an interesting one in that it might, finally, set a tone of accountability for employees who are inclined to pull the discrimination card when it suits them.

In this case, Grant’s manager had understood from his openness that he was happy for colleagues to know that he was gay.  The manager had indulged in banter with Grant, always believing from his lively responses that he enjoyed  making light of his sexuality and lifestyle.

When things at work turned sour, for other reasons, Grant claimed that he had been harassed and had suffered direct discrimination.

The EAT held that the employer had grounds to appeal an earlier employment tribunal decision in Grant’s favour.  The case is now under reconsideration.

Ref: UKEAT/0232/09/DA